I've been pretty determined to avoid traditional American healthcare, prescription medicine and over-the-counter drugs for the past 8 years. The only thing I have used my doctor for is physicals, cholesterol checks and blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies. That was until this past June.
Ten days after a camping trip on Memorial Day weekend I came down with fatigue, blurred vision, earache and fever. I went to my naturopath for a seasonal acupuncture session and told her about my symptoms. I was prescribed some natural herbs for possible Lyme infection and it was recommended that if my symptoms did not subside within a few days I should seek medical attention.
I let another few days go by. The fever did not break and the ear infection became intolerable. I had not taken any pain relievers in 8 years, but finally broke down and took Tylenol on a Sunday. First thing Monday morning I made an appointment at the doctor's office. They took 3 vials of blood and prescribed an antibiotic for the ear infection and possible Lyme Disease. It took a full seven days for the fever to break. I was scared! I barely had the energy to heat a pot of canned soup and still had to attend to some chores like laundry and dishes. I missed a rotation of work and a highly anticipated vacation with my daughters.
The following Monday I returned to the doctor's office. I was still weak, but the fever had broke and I was feeling on the upswing. They took more blood to check for more possible causes. All tests came back negative. My illness was a mystery. After 3 weeks I regained my strength and was able to do all the things I enjoy doing. I continue to have ringing in my ears; I have been told it is tinnitus and should eventually go away.
This was a learning experience in many ways. First, our health is so fragile. Even if we try to do everything right you can still be caught off-guard. Second, though I was disappointed a cause could not be immediately diagnosed I still put my faith in my doctors, both naturopath and general practitioner to heal me. I was relieved when the antibiotic was prescribed and thankful the Tylenol reduced my fever and eased my pain. I would have liked a set in stone diagnosis, but it didn't happen. I have to live with the thought that these symptoms might reoccur; I still have the tinnitus to contend with also.
I guess what I am trying to say is, I don't think taking a pill is the answer to everything. I believe diet and exercise are the answer to most of our health problems. But, there is a time and a place for modern medicine. I am thankful to live in a place where we can choose both (for the most part).
Agreed.
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